Sir Alex Ferguson's men travel to Etihad Stadium on Sunday with a three-point advantage over Roberto Mancini's side at the top of the Premier League table.

City recorded a league double over United last season on their way to the title, including an emphatic 6-1 victory at Old Trafford, but Solskjaer feels that despite their success they are still a long way behind the Red Devils.

"There's always the big brother aspect, when the little brother tries to overtake the big brother, it always happens in families, in clubs where a young player wants to overtake the old player's position," he told reporters.

"City are hoping to overtake United but I don't think they'll ever be able to."

The league-leaders have been criticised for their defensive play this season after conceding 21 goals in 15 Premier League games, but Solskjaer believes it is his former team's nature to play entertaining, open football.